Question NW3802 to the Minister of Health
24 November 2023 - NW3802
Hlengwa, Ms MD to ask the Minister of Health
Whether his department has any actionable mechanisms in place to (a) increase the total number and (b) improve the efficiency of forensic personnel in each province; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
(a) All the Provincial Departments of Health are recruiting forensic personnel to increase the number through their recruitment policy and plans. Where necessary medical officers do sessional work to ensure that provision of service especially in mortuaries is adequate. There is a drive to send medical officers for specialisation in Forensic Pathology based on availability of funds and intake by the universities.
(b) There are various mechanisms in place related to training and development of forensic health professionals in all provinces. This is done through workshops, attendance of seminars, clinical professional development and in service education and attendance of short courses.
Health officials also receive debriefing sessions by the Counselling and Clinical Psychologists and Psychiatrists where necessary to improve their well-being.
END.